Common Parasites in Small Animals - Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to common parasites found in small animals, focusing on their types, effects, transmission, and clinical signs.

Parasite

An organism that lives in or on another organism (the host) to obtain nutrients, shelter, or reproduce, often causing harm to the host.

Endoparasite

A parasite that lives inside its host.

Ectoparasite

A parasite that lives outside its host.

Immunosuppression

A decrease in the immune response, leading to increased susceptibility to infections.

Transplacental Transmission

Transfer of parasites or pathogens from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy.

Pruritus

Itchiness of the skin often caused by ectoparasites such as fleas.

Clinical Signs of Parasitism

Symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, and irritation, indicating the presence of parasites.

Intermediate Host

An organism that harbors the juvenile or larval stages of a parasite.

Vector

An organism, such as a mosquito or tick, that transmits a parasite or disease to another host.

Coccidia

A group of protozoan parasites that can cause intestinal infection, often leading to diarrhea.

Echinococcus

A zoonotic tapeworm that can cause severe health issues in humans and animals.

Giardia

A flagellated protozoan parasite linked to gastrointestinal diseases in various animals and humans.

Roundworm

A type of nematode parasite that can affect various organs and often leads to gastrointestinal symptoms.

Heartworm

A parasitic worm transmitted by mosquitoes that lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of infected animals.

Hookworm

A parasitic worm that attaches to the intestine and feeds on blood, potentially causing anemia in infected hosts.

Demodex

A genus of mites that live in hair follicles and can cause skin disorders in dogs.

Tapeworm

A parasitic worm that is segmented, attaches to the intestinal wall, and absorbs nutrients from the host.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

An allergic reaction to flea bites, often causing severe itching and skin inflammation.